New Licensing Framework for UAE Music Industry
The recent issuance of a new licensing agreement marks a significant development for the music industry in the United Arab Emirates. This licence grants the authority to manage the distribution of rights for music creators and performers, ensuring that music platforms across the country operate in compliance with the relevant regulations.
Growth in the Streaming Market
As the streaming market is projected to expand to an impressive $2.3 billion by 2030, many artists and producers in the region are actively seeking ways to monetize their works. The new licensing framework plays a critical role in fostering this growth, making it easier for creators to benefit from their music.
A Milestone Event
The announcement of this important development took place during an event featuring prominent figures such as Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Economy, and Dr. Abdulrahman Hassan Al Muaini, Assistant Under-Secretary for Intellectual Property. Their presence underscored the importance of this initiative in enhancing the cultural landscape of the UAE.
The Ministry confirmed that the licence aligns with Federal Decree-Law No. 38 of 2021, which relates to copyright and associated rights. This initiative builds on previous efforts aimed at strengthening intellectual property frameworks in the UAE, following the first collective management licence awarded to the Emirates Music Rights Association in April 2025.
Strategic Vision for Creativity
Al Saleh emphasized that under the vision of the UAE’s leadership, the country is strategically focused on improving the competitiveness of its cultural and creative industries. This approach aims to drive both regional and global growth. He noted the crucial role these sectors play in national economic development and stressed the government’s commitment to fostering private-public partnerships to nurture an environment conducive to talent and innovation.
“We aim to elevate the creative economy’s legislative framework to meet world-class standards,” Al Saleh stated, highlighting plans to expand private sector involvement in line with the National Strategy for Cultural and Creative Industries 2031.
Establishing a World-Class Governance System
Dr. Al Muaini echoed Al Saleh’s sentiments, reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to creating a sophisticated copyright governance system inspired by international best practices. The implementation of a robust legal and regulatory framework seeks to promote investment in creative sectors while protecting intellectual property rights.
“The collective music management licence serves as a catalyst for cultural innovation while safeguarding artists’ rights,” he noted. By establishing transparent revenue distribution mechanisms, the UAE aims to enhance the competitiveness of its music industry on a global scale.
Unlocking Opportunities for Artists
The authorisation of Music Nation, a pivotal move in the UAE’s strategy to nurture creativity, opens doors for artists, writers, and producers. This new framework not only strengthens rights protection but also leverages creative economy tools to position the music sector as a significant contributor to national economic growth.
Dr. Al Muaini highlighted the remarkable expansion of the UAE’s music industry, fueled by a growing ecosystem of creative enterprises and world-class events. With around 350 live music venues in Dubai alone, the national streaming market generated $841.9 million in 2024, a figure that is expected to nearly triple by 2030.
Legislative Prioritization
To sustain this growth trajectory, the Ministry of Economy is focusing on developing robust legislative frameworks that will further stimulate the creative economy. The recent authorisation of Music Nation builds upon last month’s inaugural licence granted to the Emirates Music Rights Association, marking another pivotal leap forward.
“We are actively engaging with local and international partners, including industry associations and legal experts, to share best practices that will promote sector growth,” Dr. Al Muaini added. The Ministry is also committed to raising awareness among artists, composers, and producers about how they can fully leverage these licences to protect both their creative and financial interests.
A Visionary Future for Music in the UAE
Rasha Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairwoman of the Board of Directors for Music Nation, expressed her enthusiasm for this transformational moment. “Today signifies a crucial development for both the UAE and Music Nation,” she remarked. After a period of meticulous planning, Music Nation is poised to become a fundamental pillar of music licensing, empowering the Emirates’ rich creative landscape.
Celebrating her identity as an Emirati, Al Mubarak is eager to establish a world-class infrastructure to support music rights holders. Through partnerships with industry leaders such as BMI and SoundExchange, Music Nation aims to harness cutting-edge technology and services to propel the UAE’s music economy into new realms.
